Wednesday, September 27 2006 14:37 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Dallas: Hall of Fame golfer Byron Nelson, who whose 11 straight victories in 1945 were part of the greatest single season in the game's history, died on Tuesday (26 Sep, 2006) at the age of 94.

Nelson's landmark year included a total of 18 victories, seven runner-up finishes and 19 straight rounds in the 60s.

But 'Lord Byron' was remembered Tuesday (26 Sep, 2006) as much for his dignity and generosity as for his competitive achievements.

"Byron is an icon of golf," says Tom Watson, an eight-time major champion who is a friend and protege of Nelson.

"But more important, he was a good man, in the true sense of the word."

Nelson, who is survived by his wife of 20 years, Peggy, died at his Texas ranch. The Tarrant County Medical Examiner's office confirmed the death.

He had retired from full time competition after the 1946 season, but remained a beloved presence in the game.

While Nelson won five major titles, his 1945 season defines his career.

His run of 11 consecutive victories is a standard that many consider as close to unbreakable as a sports record can be.

The next-longest streak is six, achieved by both Ben Hogan and Tiger Woods.

"That goes down as one of the greatest streaks in all of sports," Woods has said.

"I see Joe DiMaggio's record (hitting in 56 straight major league baseball games) being broken more so than someone winning 11 golf tournaments." "I mean, you've got to have one bad week somewhere. He never did. It's truly amazing."

Watson, who owns 39 career titles, says Nelson's guidance is a key factor in his success.

"He was always very positive, even when I was playing poorly," Watson said. "He helped me in a lot of ways, from chipping, to bunker play, to putting, to shaping your shots, to hitting the ball low."

Another notable pupil of Nelson, 1964 US Open champion Ken Venturi, dubbed him the 'inventor of the modern golf swing.' Indeed the US Golf Association's equipment testing machinery is called the 'Iron Byron.' In 2002, when Woods had already established himself as the world's pre-eminent golfer, he recalled meeting Nelson back in his junior days.

"I'll never forget when he pulled me aside, and basically gave his opinion on my game and things that might be pitfalls in the future, what I should do," Woods says.

"I was pretty impressionable, a really young kid, and he was a guy I idolized. He didn't have to do that. It really touched me. Without a doubt, Mr. Nelson has been one of the role models of my life."

Nelson, who was born February 4, 1912, grew up in Forth Worth, Texas, and caddied at the same club as Ben Hogan.

Nelson defeated Hogan for the Glen Garden Country Club caddie championship in 1927, and turned pro in 1932.

Nelson captured his first major title at the 1937 Masters, and won again at Augusta National in 1942. He won the US Open in 1939 and the PGA Championship in 1940 and 1945.

"Today we have lost a truly wonderful gentleman," says Billy Payne, Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament.

"Byron has meant so much to so many people, and has been an integral and important part of this Tournament since he first played here in 1935. Byron will be sorely missed at this year's Champions dinner and will be remembered in perpetuity as players cross the bridge at No. 13 that bears his name."

Despite his premature retirement, Nelson collected 52 PGA Tour titles, good for sixth on the all-time list behind Woods - who surpassed Nelson this season - Sam Snead, Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.

Nelson was inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame in 1953 and the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1974.

"He was a legend who transcended generations and was loved and respected by everyone who knew him," US PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem says in a statement. "Our players, young and old, looked to Byron as the consummate role model of our sport." "His legacy spans across his historic performances, the gentle and dignified way he carried himself and his tremendous contributions to golf and society." "In so many ways Byron was a mentor to me," Finchem adds. "I feel very blessed that he shared with me his passion and perspective on the game. I will miss him dearly." The loss is felt outside the golf world as well.

"I am deeply saddened by the news of Byron Nelson's death," says US Congressman Michael Burgess, whose district includes Nelson's Texas ranch.

Burgess nominated Nelson for a Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award bestowed by the American government, this year, and says he expected the honor to be confirmed shortly by the Senate.

"He was the best of men, and a gentleman to all. His strength of character and generosity to others set him apart," Burgess says.